The US Embassy in New Delhi has condemned the shooting in Olathe, Kansas, in which one engineer of Indian origin lost his life and another was seriously injured. An American citizen was also injured. "We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of [Srinivas] Kuchibhotla. We understand that the alleged shooter is in custody and is expected to be prosecuted for the crime. US Federal authorities are also investigating the case. We have full faith that US legal authorities will bring the case to justice,'' said a press release issued by the Embassy.
Chargé d'Affaires MaryKay Carlson said, "The United States is a nation of immigrants and welcomes people from across the world to visit, work, study and live. US authorities will investigate thoroughly and prosecute the case though we recognise that justice is a small consolation to the families in grief."
Kuchibhotla from Hyderabad and Alok Madasani from Warangal and were working at a firm called Garmin in Olathe. The ministry of external affairs said that consul R.D.Joshi was rushing from Houston to Kansas and vice consul Harpal Singh was also proceeding from Dallas to Kansas to render aid to the victim and help bring back the mortal remains of the deceased. "They will also meet community members in Kansas,'' said a statement by MEA spokesperson Vikas Swarup.
The two Indians were allegedly shot at by Adam Purinton, 51, a navy veteran, at a bar, where he yelled at them to get out of his country. The local police have called it a possible hate crime.
The way the incident is dealt will be keenly watched. US President Donald Trump had, during his campaign, said Indians would find a true friend in the White House. He has been all praise for the Indian diaspora, but his recent announcement of proposing a rethink on the H1-B visa has rattled India, given that the bulk of those visas are issued to Indian software engineers like the two victims of this hate crime.
